In an effort to bolster bilateral ties, Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, has arrived in Ottawa for an official visit to Canada. This trip underscores the ongoing commitment between the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Canada to expand strategic cooperation across various sectors.
During his visit, Sheikh Khaled is scheduled to meet with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney to explore avenues for deepening economic connections, enhancing investment opportunities, and advancing cooperation in critical industries. The dialogue aims to strengthen the longstanding partnership between the two nations, focusing on sustainable economic growth and shared prosperity.
Accompanying Sheikh Khaled is a high-level UAE delegation, including key figures such as Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology; Reem Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation; Dr. Thani Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Foreign Trade; and Mohamed Alsuwaidi, Minister of Investment. Their presence highlights the significance of the discussions aimed at fostering mutual economic interests.
This visit comes on the heels of recent high-level talks between UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Prime Minister Carney, focusing on strengthening economic and technological partnerships. A significant milestone in UAE-Canada relations was the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) finalized in July 2026, designed to reduce trade barriers and improve market access for goods, services, and investments.
The CEPA is expected to facilitate cooperation in strategic industries such as energy, mining, artificial intelligence, infrastructure, and ports. Additionally, it builds upon a UAE commitment of $50 billion in investments linked to Prime Minister Carney’s visit to the UAE, reflecting the robust nature of their economic engagement.
As Canada’s largest export market in the Middle East, the UAE plays a crucial role in Canada’s regional trade strategy. Both countries are eager to expand commercial opportunities, attract investments, and strengthen collaboration in advanced technologies and emerging sectors.
Sheikh Khaled’s visit to Canada follows his recent trip to Greece, where discussions similarly focused on enhancing bilateral relations and economic cooperation. The UAE announced plans for a further €15 billion investment in Greece, signifying its broader efforts to expand global investment opportunities and deepen economic ties with key international partners.